The Chairman of Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State, Eti-Eka Beatrice Nyiam, has called for the proper demarcation of the boundaries between Boje and Isobendighe communities as part of efforts to end recurring communal violence in the area.
Nyiam made the call on Wednesday during a radio programme on HIT FM in Calabar, following a fresh outbreak of violence between the two communities.
She appealed to the state Surveyor-General to undertake a clear and formal demarcation of the disputed boundaries, saying the measure would help prevent further encroachment and unauthorised occupation of community land.
The council chairman warned that once the boundaries had been clearly established, any subsequent attempt to encroach on another community’s land or trespass would be treated seriously and regarded as theft.
She also proposed a meeting involving traditional rulers and other community leaders from Boje and Isobendighe, with the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security expected to participate.
According to Nyiam, Governor Bassey Otu has already approved an engagement with traditional leaders as part of efforts to address the security situation and establish lasting peace between the communities.
She identified disputes over farmland as a major source of the recurring clashes, particularly during periods of increased farming activity.
Nyiam, however, said the general security situation in Boki was improving, attributing the progress to increased proactive measures by security agencies. She nevertheless called for the establishment of police outposts in communities affected by the clashes to strengthen security and provide a faster response to threats.
The council boss expressed confidence that combining proper boundary demarcation with a stronger security presence would help restore lasting peace.
She said residents should be able to live freely and peacefully among themselves, as was the case in earlier years.
The latest violence led to the deployment of troops from the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army to Boje and Isobendighe after two people were reportedly killed and property destroyed during clashes over a two-week period.
Beyond the security concerns, Nyiam also raised alarm over the continued large-scale logging activities in Boki.
She said heavy-duty trucks transporting timber were contributing to the deterioration of roads across the local government area, making movement increasingly difficult for residents.
The council chairman further expressed disappointment that the area had yet to attract sufficient investment in wood-processing industries.
She said the establishment of processing factories would enable Boki to derive greater economic value from its abundant timber resources while creating employment opportunities for residents.
Nyiam maintained that addressing the boundary disputes, improving security and promoting responsible use of the area’s natural resources would contribute significantly to the development and stability of Boki.
